Dempsey Israel trip focused on Syria, Iran and Ukraine

Mar. 30, 2014
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Gen. Martin Dempsey / MANDEL NGAN, AFP/Getty Images

by Jim Michaels, USA TODAY

by Jim Michaels, USA TODAY

The nation's top military officer is departing Saturday for a trip to Israel, where he will discuss developments in Syria, Ukraine and Iran.

The focus of the visit by Gen. Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will be "issues of mutual strategic interest," according to a statement from his office.

Israel has been worried about spiraling violence in neighboring Syria and has been wary of international talks with Iran that have led to an easing of sanctions in return for pledges from Iran to suspend elements of its nuclear program.

Dempsey has made regular trips to Israel and developed strong relationships with his Israeli counterparts. He will continue to "build on this important relationship," the statement said.

The trip comes as some Israeli officials have expressed concerns about America's level of engagement in the world.

Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Yaalon this month criticized the United States for its stance on Iran and said the United States had displayed weakness in its foreign policy. He later apologized to Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel for the remarks.

U.S. and Israeli officials have said U.S.-Israeli ties remain strong despite the comments.